Ferry And Bus, Perth Or Fremantle

Rottnest Express runs this ferry plus bus pairing over 8 hours, with a guided coach loop in place of a bike. It holds a 4.5 rating from 792 reviews, from A$147 per person.

Overview

This Rottnest Express package pairs a same day return ferry with a 90 minute guided coach tour of the island, and it runs to a full day of about 8 hours. At booking you choose your departure point, Perth or Fremantle. If you pick Perth, the trip out begins with a round trip Swan River cruise, which is part of the fare for that option.

Once ashore, the coach loop takes in Wadjemup Lighthouse and the West End, with a stop at West End where admission is covered by the tour. A local guide narrates throughout, and reviewers often praise the commentary, which they say covers the island's history. After the circuit there is free time to wander the settlement and look for quokkas before the return sailing.

The day works for travellers who want a fixed structure with ferry and coach arranged in one booking. Groups cap at 32 travellers. It is wheelchair and pushchair accessible, infants sit on laps, and most travellers can take part. Bike and snorkel gear are not part of the package, so anyone wanting those activities needs to arrange hire separately.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Make your own way to the ferryThere is no hotel pickup. Board at either Perth or Fremantle, selected at the time of booking.
2. Swan River cruiseDeparting from Perth, the ferry passes along the Swan River for 1 hour toward Fremantle, with commentary on points of interest along the way.
3. Crossing to RottnestThe ferry continues to Rottnest Island.
4. Wadjemup LighthouseThe coach passes by the lighthouse, a 5 minute drive-by segment with no admission charge.
5. West End stopA 15 minute stop at the West End, with admission included in the tour, for photos and views.
6. Coach circuit and free timeThe 90 minute tour completes with guide commentary. Afterwards you have free time in the settlement before the return ferry.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points come up again and again in traveller reviews and in the listing details.

• Dress for the day. One reviewer noted the island can be windy, and another reported a very hot day, so check the forecast and dress for the conditions rather than assuming calm weather.
• Sea sickness tablets. One traveller reported the ferry leg running around 2 hours and getting rough. If you are prone to seasickness, take tablets before boarding.
• Free time is short. One reviewer suggested a two day itinerary is ideal for seeing everything on the island.
• Quokka etiquette. Quokkas are a highlight for many reviewers, who describe plenty of sightings.
• Check your booking details. The listing notes that confirmation is normally received at the time of booking, unless booked within 3 days of travel, when it arrives within 48 hours subject to availability. Review the details before departure day.
• Bring the extras. Sun protection matters on hot days, with one reviewer reporting a very hot afternoon on the island. Snorkel gear, bikes and boards are not included, so hire them separately if wanted.

Common issues. The tour depends on decent weather, and if it is cancelled for poor conditions you are offered an alternative date or a full refund. The coach group can run to 32 travellers. There is no hotel transfer, and equipment hire plus lunch, unless the lunch option is selected, cost extra.

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